Basic research on working memory training makes breakthrough finding

New Study in Science Uses Cogmed Working Memory Training to Reveal that Mental Activity can Impact the Brain’s Biochemistry

Naperville, Ill., Feb. 6, 2009—The prestigious journal Science today published the results of a research study demonstrating for the first time that mental activity can alter the biochemistry of the human brain. Conducted by researchers from Sweden’s Karolinska Institute, the study used Position Emission Tomography (PET scans) to monitor the brain activity of subjects using Cogmed Working Memory Training. The results reveal that the training impacted the brain by increasing the number of dopamine receptors in the cortex.

The research represents the latest in a growing body of peer-reviewed studies involving Cogmed Working Memory Training. The study was led by Torkel Klingberg, a professor of neuroscience at the Karolinska Institute and co-founder of Cogmed. In 2001, Klingberg first discovered that working memory could be improved through computerized training. He later co-developed Cogmed Working Memory Training, a proven program to help children, adolescents and adults who are constrained by the inability to focus attention.

“The Karolinska Institute is taking a lead role in advancing research that delivers valuable new insights into the workings of the brain,” said Jonas Jendi, president and chief executive officer of Cogmed. “As working memory continues to be a focus of the scientific community, we are proud that our program is able to aid new studies. Our close collaboration with leading researchers in Europe and North America affirms our commitment to adhere to the highest standards of scientific rigor.”

For more information regarding the newly published study, please visit the links below for a podcast from Science and a news release from the Karolinska Institute.